“If history has taught us anything it’s that we have to play for the full match against the Aussies. We have to aim up and they’re favourites but we have to just make sure we’re at our best.

“We have a lot of strike across the team and this is certainly the strongest England team I’ve been a part of for a while. The strength in depth and competition for places from the lads that aren’t in the team as well is impressive.

“There have been more players ripping in and putting their hand up in both leagues now. When you’ve got that and you’ve got more people pushing for places and getting Test spots it’s only a good thing.”

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Reports in the media have suggested that coach Bennett is not focused on the result and is more hoping for a strong performance and to see England build throughout the tournament.

Hodgson, though, has dispelled that notion somewhat by maintaining the group only have this opener on their minds right now.

“You go into every single game the same. You want to win and you want to put your best foot forward,” Hodgson added. “Even though it’s a longer tournament we won’t be setting our sights any further than this contest.”